Questions to ask your healthcare professionals
Not sure what to ask at your next appointment? Use these questions to get more from every visit.
Quick links
Having the right questions ready can make a big difference. Whether it’s your first appointment or a regular check-up, knowing what to ask helps you stay informed and in control.
It can be hard to think of questions on the spot, especially when there’s a lot to take in. This page gives you a ready-made list to use at appointments with your GP, medical specialist or allied health professional. You don’t need to ask everything at once. Pick the questions that feel most relevant to where you are right now and come back to others as your needs change. Print the list and take it with you, or jot down the ones that matter most before you go.
About your diagnosis
Use these questions early on, or any time you feel unclear about your condition.
- What type of arthritis or musculoskeletal condition do I have?
- What is causing it, and are there any factors that may have contributed?
- How is my condition likely to change over time?
- Are there related conditions I should be checked for?
- Is there anything I should watch out for and report to you?
About your treatment
- What treatment options are available to me?
- What are the benefits and risks of each option?
- Why are you recommending this treatment for me?
- How long will it take to see if the treatment is working?
- What tests do I need, and how often?
- What should I do if my symptoms get worse or I notice side effects?
- Are there medicines or supplements I should avoid while on this treatment?
- What happens if this treatment doesn’t work for me?
About Your Medicines
- How do I take this medicine, and when?
- What are the most common side effects?
- What should I do if I miss a dose?
- Is it safe with my other medicines or supplements?
- How long will I need to take it?
- How much will the medicines cost, and what are my options?
- Should I avoid anything — like alcohol or certain foods — while taking it?
About Your Care Team and Plan
- Who is in my healthcare team and what does each person do?
- Who do I contact if I have an urgent concern between appointments?
- Do I have a management plan? Can we review it together?
- Are there other health professionals who could help me — such as a physiotherapist, occupational therapist, psychologist or dietitian?
- What’s the cost of seeing other medical professionals?
- What support services or community programs are available to me?
About Managing Day to Day
- How do I stay as active as possible with my condition?
- What types of exercise are best for me right now?
- Are there changes to my diet or lifestyle that might help?
- How do I manage a flare-up, and who do I contact when it happens?
- How might my condition affect my work, study or daily activities?
About Your Emotional Wellbeing
These questions are easy to skip but worth raising.
- Living with a chronic condition can affect mental health — what support is available to me?
- Can you refer me to a psychologist or counsellor if I need one?
- Are there support groups or peer communities I could connect with?
About Your Rights
- What standard of care should I expect?
- How do I raise a concern if I feel my needs aren’t being met?
- Can I get a second opinion if I want one?
- Are there financial supports or concessions I might be eligible for?
You don’t need to remember everything. It’s okay to ask your healthcare team to slow down,
repeat something or write it down for you.
Getting the Care You Deserve
Healthcare Providers
Understanding Arthritis
Navigating the Australian Healthcare System
Get Support
